Bollywood is evolving: Gulzar

The lyricist feels that Hindi film industry is going through an interesting phase. He hints at a comeback too.

Awards, adulation and recognition haven’t spoiled Gulzar a bit. The man remains true to his roots. His song, Kajrare, became a nation-wide hit but he passes on the credit to Aishwarya’s jhatkas.  

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He was in Lucknow recently to accept an award. We caught him in a philosophical mode. He talks about films, Bollywood’s evolution and his future plans. Excerpts from an interview:

Why have you stopped directing films? Your last film Hu Tu Tu was released five years ago.
I admit it is along gap. Cinema has gone through a major change in this period. Indian cinema is going through a very interesting phase and has developed a language of its  own.
In future many films may have no story but only talking images, like Bunti and Babli. There is no story in this film but you enjoy the sheer energy of two young characters. I am trying to catch up to this new language in my own way. And I shall definitely return as director and filmmaker

Gulzar with his daughter Meghna

Is there something on your mind?

Yes, but I will not spell out the details. I will start working on it once I have complete confidence in the subject.

Do you think Bollywood has lost the old world charm as far as lyrics, music and playback singing is concerned?
I don’t want to comment much. It is true that good lyrics were composed and sung earlier. Old numbers still weave magic. But this does not mean that the present scenario is bad.

Who are your favourites among the new crop of musicians?
Preetam (of Gangster and Dhoom  fame) and Shantanu Moitra. Shantanu was good in Parineeta. Then there is AR Rahman. 

It is said you get along well with young music directors.
Young music directors have positive vibes. Their compositions are in tune with the present time. They are experiment with their work, which I like.

Tell us more about Kajrare
I had put in my heart into it.

What is the most important thing about Kajrare?
Audience dances to its music and beats. This is the biggest acclamation for a writer. He should work in conjunction with the music director and should be able to live up to the music.

Bollywood thinks Kajrare  rocks because of the lyrics.
Don’t credit me It is Aishwarya’s magic. Credit also goes to the music director.

You have won many awards. Do you aspire for anything else?
I am also used to defeats. Awards are a part of celebration. But you have  to strive hard continuously on the road to excellence. Otherwise people will forget your awards soon